When research is done, specifically studies including human participants, certain ethical
principles need to be put into place. This is done in order to protect the participants in the
research study. These principles include:
Informed consent
Informed consent refers to participants voluntarily and knowingly giving their permission to
participate in the research. Consent should be given in a written format; for example, a form
with all relevant information pertaining to the study will be read and signed by the
participant. Informed consent is crucial in maintaining basic ethical practices in scientific
research. Informed consent includes obtaining consent from parents/guardians if the study
includes minors. This will also be applicable to those with cognitive or mental disabilities and
the researcher must ensure that permission was rightly granted from the correct person,
guardian or caregiver. Informed consent also ensures that the participants know their role in
the research, what the research entails as well as the possible risks and benefits. All necessary
information needs to be disclosed so that the participant can make an informed, conscience
choice so that consent may be granted and the individual can decide whether or not they want
to participate.
No harm to participants
This principle is upheld in order to ensure that participants of the research study are aware of
the benefits, risks or possible harms linked to the study and to protect them from any harm. It
also ensures that the participants rights are protected. It is the duty of the researcher to
discover the potential risks of the study and warn participants accordingly. ‘Harm’ in a
research study may include physical harm, psychological harm, discomfort, distress or social
harm. All necessary measures need to be taken to minimize the risks and harms and in cases
where a participant has been harmed due to the effects of the research study, resources should
be made available to the participant to lessen its effects. For example, if the participant was
physically injured, medical services should be provided. If the harm was emotional, then
counselling services should be provided.
Anonymity
Anonymity in scientific research refers to participants remaining unidentifiable. This is often
done by removing the name or identity of the participant from their shared responses.
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